On Friday 24 July, 56 students from Years 7 to 12, together with five staff members, participated in the Chisholm Catholic College Vinnies Sleepout. The annual event provided students with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of homelessness in Perth while reflecting on our Catholic call to serve those most in need.
The evening began with a simple meal of soup and a small bread roll, mirroring the type of emergency meal that many people experiencing homelessness receive through community meal providers across Perth. While modest, the meal served as a powerful reminder that for many people this is not an occasional experience, but part of their daily reality.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation by Hannah Taylor from St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies). Hannah shared valuable insights into the complex causes of homelessness and the many ways Vinnies supports individuals and families experiencing hardship throughout Western Australia.
Students then participated in an energetic and thought-provoking simulation game, where they faced the challenges of navigating homelessness while attempting to secure accommodation. The activity highlighted the many barriers people encounter and encouraged students to consider the uncertainty, frustration and vulnerability experienced by those without a safe place to call home.
As darkness fell, staff and students prepared to spend the night sleeping ‘rough’ on the College grounds. Armed with only basic shelter, participants found places outside where the cold winter temperatures and bright security lighting made for a restless night. While this experience could never fully replicate the realities of homelessness, it offered a small glimpse into the discomfort and insecurity that thousands of Australians face every night.
The event concluded the following morning with a moving liturgy centred on our Christian call to compassion and service. Together, students and staff committed themselves to living out their Catholic faith by responding with love, dignity and practical action to those experiencing poverty and homelessness within our community.
The Vinnies Sleepout was a powerful reminder that education extends beyond the classroom. Through learning, reflection and shared experience, our students were challenged to see Christ in those who are most vulnerable and to become people who bring hope through acts of justice and compassion.
Congratulations to all the students and staff who participated in this year’s Vinnies Sleepout and embraced the opportunity to learn, grow and put their faith into action.
Deacon Aaron Peters
Deputy Principal – Mission
